the science is becoming more popular and moreen ty. >> . >> this patrol car drove by, it's a good bet you wouldn't see what's on top. but it would like hi see you or your license plate. >> it is basically like a camera, and it covers through the front and to the side. the three cameras on this car are constantly scanning, searching for license plates. >> if you get a car that's wanted or stolen, if there's a amber alert, it will notify you that a car is in the area. >> the department has several patrol cars equipped with cameras, the photos taken randomly and stored in a database that can can later be referenced for criminal cases. >> investigators use it. we've recovered a lot of people's property. >>> but is it a invasion of pricy. >> generally, i'm not a fan of you know, the government looking over our shoulders about anything. >> it appears a similar system played a role in the san jose abduction. >> when it comes down to a situation where it helps like it did today, that's a big argument in favor of it. >>> last year, the acl sued the federal government to find out what data is b